Senior Scientist Ecologist

Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.

• Help shape the science behind NSW biodiversity mapping by leading ecological analysis and collaborating with leading researchers and government stakeholders.
• Temporary, full-time opportunity (Up to June 2028) 35 hours per week
• Queanbeyan Location, hybrid working supported
• Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $128,052 to $142,649 + super

Our Science and Insights team is currently seeking to appoint a Senior Scientist Ecologist to provide expert ecological advice, analysis and biodiversity mapping expertise that supports environmental outcomes and evidence-based decision making across NSW.

As a Senior Scientist Ecologist, you'll help deliver biodiversity and vegetation mapping that supports conservation, environmental management and land use decisions across NSW. You'll apply your ecological expertise to improve mapping products, provide scientific advice and work closely with researchers, government agencies and other stakeholders to strengthen our understanding and protection of the state's unique natural environments.

You are an experienced ecologist who can apply scientific knowledge to real-world environmental challenges. With a strong background in vegetation assessment, biodiversity science and ecological analysis, you're comfortable translating complex information into practical insights that support conservation and land management outcomes.

You build strong relationships, communicate scientific concepts clearly and work effectively with researchers, government agencies and other stakeholders. Organised and solutions-focused, you can manage multiple priorities, contribute to collaborative projects and deliver high-quality outcomes that stand up to scientific scrutiny.

• Demonstrated expertise in botanical field survey and skills in plant identification
• Experience designing and implementing vegetation surveys programs to support vegetation classification, modelling and mapping.
• Demonstrated knowledge of Australian native plant communities and related landscape scale patterns
• Demonstrated leadership in ecological field programs and collaborative science projects, including the planning, delivery and quality assurance of vegetation survey data.

• Environmental science qualifications
• Wide experience in botanical field work.

For more information read the full Role Description:  Senior Scientist Ecologist

The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) works to protect the state’s environment and heritage. It leads the way on climate change, driving the sustainable transition to a net zero economy, powered by affordable, reliable, and clean energy.

DCCEEW conserves and protects the state’s natural environment. It manages the NSW national park estate, including its rich and diverse biodiversity and Aboriginal cultural heritage for future generations.

DCCEEW also ensures sustainable management of water resources across the state, to support the environment, communities and industry.

We acknowledge the ongoing custodial responsibilities of the Aboriginal peoples of NSW to care for Country and water and are committed to establishing meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal peoples in the management of the environment.

If excited by the information above, we look forward to receiving your application, including a copy of your resume and cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role.

Please note to be eligible to apply for this position you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, or hold a valid Australian working Visa for the duration of the appointment. 

Should you require further information about the role please contact Bob Denholm via Bob.Denholm@dcceew.nsw.gov.au or on 02 4927 3122.

A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that may become available over the next 18 months.

Our goal is to build a workforce that not only represents but also understands and serves the diverse communities of New South Wales. We are committed to making our state a vibrant and inclusive place to live, work, and thrive for everyone. Our workforce represents people of all ages and genders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities, the LGBTQI+ community, and people from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

• Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace.
• How we encourage and support people with disability
• Information and adjustments for individual needs for the recruitment process and the workplace.

If you require an adjustment for your application process, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team by emailing dcceew.ta@dpie.nsw.gov.au or contacting Gabriella Schulzer on 9585 6521 (please mention reference number 552196).

If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander use our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for roles or our Aboriginal Career pathways team at AEX@dcceew.nsw.gov.au for a yarn. 

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Advertised: 10 Aug 2026 AUS Eastern Standard Time
Applications close: 24 Aug 2026 AUS Eastern Standard Time

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